Silver Cross Offers Expanded Breast Cancer Screening Options
The Silver Cross Center for Breast Health in New Lenox is one of three convenient locations to schedule a screening mammogram.
The American College of Radiology recommends annual mammograms for women over 40, and judging by the increasing number of breast cancers reported in the past few years, women are taking that recommendation seriously.
“This is a good thing, because it means more women are going in for screening, and breast cancers are being caught early. That’s the key to the best outcome,” said Marci Vasiliades, Administrative Director of Imaging Services for Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox.
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Vasiliades wants to make sure women know Silver Cross offers several options for screening mammography:
The Silver Cross Center for Breast Health on the New Lenox campus; the Orland Medical Pavilion , 17047 S. LaGrange Road, Orland Park; and Prime Medical Imaging , 10260 W. 191st St., Suite 106, Mokena.
Women don’t need a referral from their doctors for a routine screening, Vasiliades said. “But we will ask for their physician’s name, in case the screening finds something that requires follow up.”
Once women are registered at one of the centers, the screening takes about 10 to 15 minutes, Vasiliades said. “If the screening is clear, we recommend annual screening mammograms. If something other than normal breast tissue is demonstrated, they may be recalled for additional targeted mammogram views or an ultrasound.”
Likewise, she said, 40 is the suggested age to begin annual mammograms, but if women should notice any problems during self-exams or notice other breast symptoms, they should reach out to their physicians. Discussing family history of breast cancer with their physician is also important.
Vasiliades believes more women are requesting mammograms because they are becoming more aware, through various media channels.
“We also do whatever we can to let women know a mammogram can save their life.”
Vasiliades said women can schedule routine screenings by visiting one of the Silver Cross sites and booking your appointment online at silvercross.org/schedule-now , or by calling the hospital’s Central Scheduling Department at (815) 300-7076.
